By ANN REAGAN
As patrons of the library walk in the door, the first thing they will see is a serene reminder that too many lives are devastated by Breast Cancer. Lamb County Library has created a Memorial wall in observance of Breast Cancer Month to honor those whose lives have been affected by breast cancer.
Library employee, Eva Garcia, designed the wall concept. She lost her mother, Dolores Bettancourt, and two dear friends, Leslie Unzueta and Patricia Trucks, who had been stricken with the disease. “It’s a scary, confusing, and emotional time for the victims and their families.” said Ms. Garcia.
The wreath that is prominently displayed on the Memorial Wall was passed to Dolores Bettancourt as a symbol of hope and support. Eva’s mother had received the wreath from cancer survivor Grace Shea, who has been declared cancer free since May 2021.
Sadly, Dolores Bettancourt’s breast cancer was diagnosed in the same month. Before she could begin scheduled cancer treatment, she was stricken by the Covid-19 virus and passed away in August. And so, the wreath will be passed to yet another in the incessant battle against this deadly disease.
Area residents are encouraged to submit photos of the people in their lives who survived breast cancer, who are currently dealing with breast cancer, and the loved ones who have been lost to breast cancer during Breast Cancer Awareness month.
The library staff invites area residents to visit the wall and to “Support the Fighters, Admire the Survivors, Honor the Taken, and Never give up Hope.”
Printed material related to breast cancer is provided free to the public by the Lamb County Library.